UPSC Photo Resizer 2026 – Name & Date Stamp Free

UPSC photo requirements for 2026: the quick answer

UPSC requires a JPG photo between 350 and 1000 pixels on each side, file size between 20 KB and 300 KB, shot against a white or light background. The photo must include your candidate name and the date the photo was taken, printed below the image. This tool resizes your photo to fit within those limits, compresses it to the allowed file size range, and adds the name and date stamp — all in your browser without uploading anything.

UPSC CSE 2026 key dates

Dates are approximate based on the UPSC 2026 notification. Always verify on the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.

How to use this tool

1. 1

   Tap "Choose Image" and select your photo from your phone or computer. JPG, PNG, and HEIC files are all accepted.

2. 2

   Enter your candidate name exactly as it appears in your UPSC application form.

3. 3

   Set the date — this is the date the photo was taken, not today's date unless they match.

4. 4

   Tap "Process Image." The tool resizes and compresses your photo to UPSC specs and adds the name/date stamp.

5. 5

   Check the output file size shown below the preview. It should read between 20 KB and 300 KB. Tap "Download Image" to save it.

What the UPSC portal actually checks

The UPSC online application uses an automated validator when you upload your photo. It checks three things: file format (must be JPG), file size (must be 20–300 KB), and pixel dimensions (each side must be 350–1000 pixels). If any of these fail, you get a generic "invalid file" error.

The stamp — your name and date at the bottom — is not machine-checked at upload. But it is required by the instructions and may be checked manually during document verification at the interview stage. Skipping it is a risk not worth taking.

Background color is also not machine-validated at upload, but photos with clearly wrong backgrounds (dark, patterned, or outdoor scenes) can be flagged during manual document review. Use a white or off-white background to stay safe.

UPSC photograph guidelines you should know

Beyond the technical specs, UPSC has guidelines about the photograph itself. The photo should be recent (taken within the last six months). Your face should be clearly visible, occupying roughly 70–80% of the frame. The background should be plain white or light-colored. Eyes must be open and clearly visible. Glasses are permitted if they are not tinted and there is no glare. Head coverings are permitted only for religious reasons.

Studio photos on a proper plain white backdrop work best. If you are taking a photo at home, use a well-lit area with a plain wall behind you. Avoid photos where shadows fall across your face or the background — these are common reasons for manual rejection at later stages.

If you are simultaneously applying to state PSC exams or other government portals, note that each portal has different photo specifications. The Kerala PSC Thulasi photo resizer outputs exactly 150×200 pixels — which the UPSC portal would reject as too small. Likewise, the Sarathi driving licence photo uses a 420×525 pixel portrait format that does not meet UPSC's square or near-square requirement. Use the correct tool for each portal.

Frequently asked questions